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University of Southampton


Public research and development money unlocks private investment and lasting economic growth

A study by the University of Southampton found that public research and development funding can mobilize private R&D, supporting economic growth for years. The research reveals that government-funded R&D is an unusually productive form of public investment, encouraging additional private investment and boosting economic activity.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Economic Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 30, 2026

Scientists unveil technique to build ultra-thin material stacks that promise quantum breakthrough

Researchers unveiled a technique to build ultra-clean 2D heterostructures using muscovite crystals, eliminating microscopic residues that disrupt electronic device performance. This method enables precise stacking of atomic layers, leading to new properties and potential breakthroughs in quantum computing and nanoelectronics.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2026

Reusable catheters a safe choice that could save NHS millions, study finds

A new study by the University of Southampton has found that reusable catheters are just as safe for patients as single-use ones and do not increase the risk of urinary tract infections. The study followed hundreds of patients for a year and discovered that those who tested reusable catheters used 35 per cent fewer antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalInternational Journal of Nursing Studies·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 20, 2026

New study reveals best dosage for ADHD medications

A new study has identified the most effective dosages for five commonly used ADHD medications using data from thousands of participants. The research, published in The Lancet Psychiatry, provides a comprehensive view of dosage effects and developed an online tool to help clinicians and patients choose the right dosage.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 14, 2026

No overdiagnosis of ADHD, say experts

Experts warn that the lack of adequate diagnosis and treatment for ADHD is a pressing concern, with 27% of children and young people waiting over a year for an assessment. Effective treatments are available and backed by strong evidence, but significant barriers remain, including long waiting times and growing demand.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateMar 10, 2026

‘Gaybourhoods’ boost LGB voter turnout

LGB individuals vote more when living near other LGB people, with a 1.56 percentage point increase in voter turnout for every one percentage point increase in local LGB population density. This study, conducted in Sweden, tracked over 20,000 LGB individuals and nearly eight million heterosexual peers across four parliamentary elections.

Fossilized plankton study gives long-term hope for oxygen depleted oceans

Researchers found fossilized plankton suggest a possible long-term recovery from oxygen-depleted oceans despite climate warming. The study, published in Communications Earth & Environment, examined fossilized plankton from the Arabian Sea and found higher oxygen levels during the Miocene Climatic Optimum (MCO) compared to today.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 29, 2026

Largest study reveals best treatment options for ADHD

The largest review to date found that medication for children and adults, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy for adults, are the most effective approaches for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Researchers developed an interactive website to present findings and help people with ADHD make informed treatment decisions.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalThe BMJ·DateNov 26, 2025

Ancient bogs reveal 15,000-year climate secret, say scientists

Researchers have discovered that sudden shifts in the Southern Westerly Winds 15,000 years ago triggered a massive growth of ancient bogs across the Southern Hemisphere. The study found that the shifting winds created an ideal climate for the swamps to form, and now believe they play a crucial role in regulating carbon stores in peatland.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateNov 18, 2025

Job demand, not just skills, shapes public attitudes on immigration

A recent study published in the Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies found that public attitudes towards immigration are shaped by job demand rather than just skill level. The research showed that citizens in both England and Japan were more likely to grant visas to workers in high-demand occupations, regardless of their skill level.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJournal of Ethnic and Migration Studies·DateSep 15, 2025

Changing climate pushed islanders to 'chase the rain' across the Pacific 1,000 years ago

Research reveals a major shift in South Pacific climate conditions around 1,000 years ago, prompting people to settle further east and move away from drier conditions. The climate shift saw western areas become progressively drier while eastern areas became wetter and more attractive for colonization.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 27, 2025

Data-driven designs to improve prosthetic legs

Researchers have developed a data-driven way to fit prosthetic legs that could lead to better fitting prosthetics in less time and at a lower cost. The new technology generates basic design recommendations instantly and has been shown to be as comfortable on average as those created by highly skilled prosthetists.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalJMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies·DateAug 21, 2025